Merklap van linnen waarop met veekleurige zijde in kruis-, kastjes- en stersteek o.a. de verspieders van Kanaän, de Hollandse Maagd, het wapen van Amsterdam, Adam en Eva bij de boom van goed en kwaad, ANNO 1802, OUD 13 IAAR en drie paar initialen c. 1802

This sampler was stitched in 1802 by GHA, who was just 13 years old at the time. Made from linen and embroidered with colorful silk, it’s a window into the world of a young person in the Netherlands during the early 19th century. Samplers like this were more than just decorative; they were a crucial part of a girl’s education. They served as a testament to her skills in needlework, literacy, and even moral instruction. Notice the biblical scenes depicted here, such as Adam and Eve. These images would have been deeply familiar, reinforcing religious and ethical values. The inclusion of the Amsterdam coat of arms and the Dutch maiden, speaks to the formation of national identity and civic pride during a period of political upheaval. Consider this piece as both a personal expression and a cultural artifact, reflecting the complex expectations placed on young women, and the ways in which they were taught to navigate their roles in society.